Behind the Grill: How We Prepare Kabobs the Traditional Way at Shamshiri

Kabobs are more than a meal—they’re a craft, a cultural expression, and a symbol of Persian hospitality. For generations, kabobs have played a central role in Persian cuisine, representing the perfect harmony of technique, tradition, and time. At Shamshiri Persian Grill in Glendale, we honor that heritage every single day.

If you’ve ever searched for a kabobs restaurant, wondered how authentic kabobs are truly prepared, or simply wanted a behind-the-scenes look at your favorite Persian dishes, this guide takes you straight into the heart of the grill.
From hand-mixed meats to carefully tended flames, here’s how Shamshiri keeps the art of Persian kabobs alive.

What Makes a Kabobs Restaurant Truly Authentic?

When people think of a kabobs restaurant, they might envision any place that grills meat on skewers. But authentic Persian kabobs require a far more meticulous process—one rooted in tradition, precise techniques, and fresh, high-quality ingredients.

Shamshiri Persian Grill, a beloved Persian restaurant in Glendale, is known for preserving this heritage in every kabob served. Our commitment to tradition is what sets our kabobs apart from modern shortcuts.

The Foundation: Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients

Authentic kabobs start with fresh, premium meats—never frozen. Whether it’s ground beef for Koobideh, marinated chicken for Joojeh, or tender cuts of beef and lamb for Barg and Shish Kabob, quality is non-negotiable.

Traditional Persian Marinades

Marinades are where the flavors begin. They aren’t heavy or complicated; instead, Persian cooking relies on simplicity done right—
• Fresh lemon
• Saffron
• Onion
• Salt
• Turmeric
• Yogurt (for certain kabobs)

These ingredients infuse the meat with herbal, earthy, citrus-forward notes without overpowering the natural flavor.

The Art of Crafting Persian Kabobs: A Look Inside Our Grill

Preparing kabobs the traditional way requires patience, precision, and a deep respect for the technique.

1. Mixing and Hand-Skewering the Koobideh

Koobideh is one of the most iconic Persian kabobs—and also one of the most difficult to prepare correctly. The mixture must be finely balanced so it doesn’t fall apart on the grill.
At Shamshiri:
• We grind fresh beef daily
• Mix it with grated onion and seasonings
• Hand-sculpt it onto wide, flat skewers

This method, passed down over generations, gives Koobideh its soft, juicy texture and unmistakable flavor.

2. Marinating Chicken the Traditional Way

For Joojeh Kabob, the chicken is marinated for hours in lemon, saffron, and spices. The saffron gives it its signature golden color, while the slow marination ensures each bite is tender and flavorful.

3. Preparing Tender Cuts for Barg and Shish Kabobs

Barg requires careful slicing of filet mignon, tenderizing it gently, and marinating it lightly so the natural flavor shines.
Shish Kabob uses cubes of steak or lamb that are skewered with vegetables, absorbing flavor as they grill.

4. Managing the Grill — The Heart of a Kabobs Restaurant

The grill is everything.
Authentic Persian kabobs must be cooked over open flames, not gas burners or automated systems. At Shamshiri:
• Our grill masters manage the heat by hand
• Flames are adjusted constantly
• Skewers are turned at the perfect moment
• Meats are cooked evenly for maximum juiciness

This is where experience becomes essential. A true kabob chef can tell by sight—and smell—when each kabob is ready.

Saffron Rice, Fresh Sides & the Perfect Pairings

A kabob is only as good as its accompaniments. Traditional Persian kabobs are served with:
• Fluffy saffron basmati rice
• Grilled tomato
• Fresh herbs
• Onions
• Lavash or pita bread

At Shamshiri, the rice is prepared daily using premium basmati. Every grain is long, fragrant, and perfectly cooked—a hallmark of Persian cuisine.

Even our grilled tomatoes, a staple at any kabobs restaurant, are roasted slowly until soft, smoky, and slightly sweet.

What Sets Shamshiri Apart from Other Local Restaurants in Glendale

While Glendale has many local restaurants offering Mediterranean or Middle Eastern dishes, Shamshiri Persian Grill stands out because we remain deeply committed to tradition.

Authentic Persian Techniques

Every kabob is prepared the way it has been for generations—by hand, over open flame, and using real saffron and herbs.

Fresh, Never-Frozen Ingredients

Quality is consistent, whether you dine in or order takeout.

Warm, Family-Style Hospitality

Persian culture values hospitality, and at Shamshiri, you feel it from the moment you walk in.

A Reputation Built Over Years

Locals searching for Persian food near me, kabobs in Glendale, or traditional Persian kabobs often end up at Shamshiri—because our flavors are trusted and loved.

A Closer Look: The Kabob Styles You’ll Find at Shamshiri

If you’re exploring kabob restaurants or trying Persian food for the first time, these dishes are must-try classics:

Koobideh Kabob

Ground beef grilled to tender perfection.

Chicken Kabob (Joojeh)

Marinated in saffron and lemon—juicy, light, and flavorful.

Barg Kabob

Thinly sliced filet mignon, incredibly tender and aromatic.

Shish Kabob

Chunks of beef or lamb grilled with vegetables.

Soltani Combination

A customer favorite: one Barg + one Koobideh.

Each brings unique textures and flavors, but all share the same traditional preparation that makes Persian kabobs so special.

Where to Experience Authentic Kabobs in Glendale

If you’re looking for a kabobs restaurant that stays true to the traditional methods and flavors of Persian cuisine, Shamshiri Persian Grill is one of Glendale’s top choices.

Whether you’re dining with family, celebrating a special occasion, or simply craving a perfectly grilled kabob, you’ll find the best of Persian cooking here.

We invite you to visit our Glendale location and taste the difference that tradition, care, and quality make. From our family to yours—welcome to Shamshiri.

Q&A Section

Q: What should I look for in a good kabobs restaurant?

Look for fresh ingredients, open-flame grilling, hand-prepared kabobs, and traditional Persian marinades.

Q: Are Persian kabobs spicy?

No. Persian kabobs are full of flavor without heat, making them perfect for all ages.

Q: What kabob should I try first at Shamshiri?

Koobideh, Joojeh (chicken), and Barg are customer favorites.

Q: Does Shamshiri offer kabob takeout and delivery?

Yes. You can enjoy all of our kabobs through dine-in, takeout, or delivery in Glendale.

Q: How is Persian kabob different from Mediterranean kabob?

Persian kabobs feature saffron, lemon, turmeric, and fresh herbs, while Mediterranean kabobs often use garlic, oregano, or tahini-based marinades.

Conclusion: A Tradition Worth Grilling For

Persian kabobs are more than food—they’re a celebration of culture, technique, and time-honored tradition. At Shamshiri Persian Grill, we’re proud to share this heritage with our Glendale community and beyond. From hand-mixed Koobideh to saffron-marinated chicken and filet mignon Barg, every kabob is crafted with intention and authenticity.

If you’re ready to experience the true art of Persian grilling, Shamshiri is here to welcome you with the best kabobs in Glendale.